LEGENDARY MASTER DISTILLER, JOHN CAMPBELL, JOINS SESPE CREEK DISTILLERY
Oxnard, California – Sespe Creek Distillery, known for its portfolio that includes Warbringer Whiskey, Silvergrin Vodka, and Parlor Cay Rum, has announced an exciting development with the appointment of John Campbell, Scotland’s esteemed Master Distiller, as its new Chief Operating Officer. Campbell boasts an impressive résumé, having led Scotland’s famed Laphroaig distillery for 17 years and, more recently, serving as Master Distiller at Lochlea Distillery.
Making the significant move to California marks a new chapter in Campbell’s career and symbolizes the ambitious direction of this burgeoning American craft spirits producer. His expertise and vision are poised to elevate the distillery’s offerings both domestically and internationally.
“John’s joining Sespe Creek Distillery is incredibly significant,” stated Alfred English, the distillery’s owner. “Few distillers have had such a tremendous impact in the whiskey industry as John has over the past two decades. His addition signals a clear message that we are a formidable force in California’s Central Coast.”
As the incoming COO, Campbell will lead Sespe Creek’s diverse spirits portfolio, which includes the innovative Warbringer Mesquite Smoked Southwest Bourbon, alongside Parlor Cay Rum and Silvergrin Vodka.
Campbell expressed his enthusiasm for this new role, saying, “I am thrilled to accept the position of COO and Master Distiller at Sespe Creek Distillery. The prospect of experimenting with new spirits categories in a different country truly excites me, and I am ready to dive in and explore what lies ahead.”
In addition to his role at Sespe Creek, Campbell’s appointment heralds the onset of a pioneering collaboration with UFC legends Josh “Warmaster” Barnett and Donald “Cowboy” Cerrone. Both Barnett and Cerrone have their sub-brands under the Warbringer Bourbon label: the Warmaster Edition and Cowboy Edition respectively.
Since its inception in 2019, Barnett’s Warmaster Edition has built an impressive following, partly due to its feature on The Joe Rogan Show, where it was highlighted as one of the host’s favorite choices. Meanwhile, Cerrone’s Cowboy Edition made an exciting debut at UFC 300 in Las Vegas.
John Campbell will officially begin his role at Sespe Creek in October. Currently operating as a production-focused distillery, Sespe Creek plans to unveil a tasting room in the first half of 2025, making it an even more attractive destination for whiskey enthusiasts.
At Sespe Creek Distillery, there is a profound reverence for Americana heritage. Each brand serves as a bridge to cherished places and moments in history. The spirits crafted within each bottle reflect an unwavering dedication to the art of distilling and the belief that the extra efforts yield memorable sips.
